“By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises was in the act of offering up his only son, of whom it was said, “Through Isaac shall your offspring be named.” He considered that God was able even to raise him from the dead, from which, figuratively speaking, he did receive him back” (Hebrews 11:17-19).

Much like the steel and concrete understructure of a bridge or roadway, Abraham’s faith in God served as the foundation for his belief that God would keep His promise to provide him with an heir. In fact, Abraham’s faith led him to conclude that God would uphold that promise,  even if it meant bringing that heir back from the dead. This is the kind of faith that truly honors God, for as we are told in Romans 1:17, “…it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith'” (NIV).

In light of this, we can say that genuine Biblical faith is focused upon the God “…who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think…” (Ephesians 3:20 NKJV). That brings us to several important insights offered by the following commentator…

“Our author’s statement that Abraham believed in God’s ability to raise the dead is not a gratuitous reading into the narrative of something that is not there. When Abraham left his servants behind while he and Isaac went to the place of sacrifice, he said to them: ‘The boy and I will go on there and worship, and we will come back to you’ (Gen. 22: 5).

The plain meaning of the text is that Abraham expected to come back with Isaac. But how could he come back with Isaac, if Isaac was to be offered up as a burnt-offering? Only if Isaac was to be raised from the dead after being sacrificed. Abraham reckoned, says our author, that since the fulfillment of the promises depended on Isaac’s survival, then God was bound (as He certainly was able) to restore Isaac’s life if his life had to be taken.

And in fact, so far as Abraham’s resolution was concerned, Isaac was as good as dead, and it was practically from the dead that he received him back when his hand was arrested in mid-air and the heavenly voice forbade him to proceed further.” ₍₁₎

So, this episode from the lives of Abraham and Isaac serves as a living parable that points the way to authentic, God-honoring faith. In the words of author and Christian apologist Josh McDowell, “The Christian faith is faith in Christ. Its value or worth is not in the one believing, but in the one believed… it doesn’t matter how much faith you have, but rather who is the object of your faith…” ₍₂₎

(1) The New International Commentary On The New Testament – The Epistle To The Hebrews, F. F. Bruce, General Editor © Copyright 1964, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. Grand Rapids, Michigan [pg. 311]

(2) McDowell, Josh. Evidence That Demands A Verdict Volume I. Here’s Life Publishers, Inc. © 1972, 1979 Campus Crusade For Christ, Inc. [pg. 4]

“By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac. He had received the promises, yet he was ready to offer up his only son. God had told him, ‘Through Isaac descendants will carry on your name,’ and he reasoned that God could even raise him from the dead, and in a sense he received him back from there” (Hebrews 11:17-19).

Abraham’s faithful response to Isaac’s would-be sacrifice in Genesis 22:1-19 is worthy of a closer look.

First, we should notice the way God issued His directive regarding Isaac’s sacrifice in Genesis 22:2. That portion of Scripture quotes God’s decree as follows: “…Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering…” Those phrases seems purposely designed to highlight the emotional cost to Abraham in fulfilling God’s commandment.

We should also consider what that sacrifice involved. First, Abraham had to pack for a trip that would end with the death of his son. Next, he personally split the firewood that he would use to present his beloved son as a burnt offering. Finally, we should note that God’s command did not permit Abraham to execute his son quickly. Instead, the travel time associated with God’s directive provided three long days for Abraham to think it over (see Genesis 22:3-4).

If that wasn’t enough, Isaac began to question what was taking place…

“…As they walked along together, Isaac spoke up, ‘Father!’ He answered, ‘Yes, my son?’ Isaac asked, ‘I see that you have the coals and the wood, but where is the lamb for the sacrifice?'” (Genesis 22:6-7 GW).

Isaac’s question should prompt us to meditate upon the human element that underlies this drama. For instance, consider how any loving parent in Abraham’s position might feel if confronted with a similar question. This makes Abraham’s response highly instructive, for he did not become emotionally distraught or angered in his reply to Isaac. He did not disparage God, lament his fate, or deny the reality of the situation. Instead, Abraham responded in a faithful, God-honoring manner…

“Abraham answered, ‘God Himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.’ Then the two of them walked on together” (Genesis 22:8 HCSB).

While Abraham’s response served to reflect his deep and abiding faith in God, the inspired author of Hebrews also provides us with a glimpse into his internal thought process as well: “Abraham reasoned that if Isaac died, God was able to bring him back to life again. And in a sense, Abraham did receive his son back from the dead” (NLT).

“By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, of whom it was said, ‘In Isaac your seed shall be called,’ concluding that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead, from which he also received him in a figurative sense” (Hebrews 11:17-19).

As we saw earlier in Hebrews chapter six, this portion of Scripture refers to a historic event that took place in the life of Abraham, the famous Biblical patriarch. That event involved a son who had been born to Abraham according to God’s promise (see Genesis 15:1-6). That son’s name was Isaac, and he represented the fulfillment of God’s commitment to provide Abraham with a biological heir.

However, there came a time when Isaac was involved in a significant test of Abraham’s faith…

“Then God said, ‘Take your son, your only son, whom you love–Isaac–and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you’

…When they reached the place God had told him about, Abraham built an altar there and arranged the wood on it. He bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son.

But the angel of the LORD called out to him from heaven, ‘Abraham! Abraham!’ ‘Here I am,’ he replied. ‘Do not lay a hand on the boy,’ he said. ‘Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son'” (Genesis 22:2, 9-12 NIV).

This overview forms the basis for our passage from Hebrews 11:17-19 and God’s response to Abraham’s act of faith…

“‘…By Myself I have sworn, says the Lord, because you have done this thing, and have not withheld your son, your only son— blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies. In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice'” (Genesis 22:16-18).

Thus, we have God’s encouraging message through the prophet Isaiah for those of every generation…

“If you want to do right and obey the Lord, follow Abraham’s example. He was the rock from which you were chipped. God chose Abraham and Sarah to be your ancestors. The Lord blessed Abraham, and from that one man came many descendants” (Isaiah 51:1-2 CEV).

“For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city” (Hebrews 11:14-16 ESV).

This passage reminds us that the future reality of heaven is something that should influence our daily lives. The individuals we have already met in Hebrews chapter 11 recognized that truth as expressed in the Living Bible paraphrase of this passage…

“If they had wanted to, they could have gone back to the good things of this world. But they didn’t want to. They were living for heaven. And now God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has made a heavenly city for them.”

These verses thus serve as a fitting conclusion that connects our author’s earlier reference to God’s people as “…strangers with no permanent home on earth” (Hebrews 11:13 GW).

It also provides an important reminder to those who are seeking to find their place within this world. If we are not careful to maintain an eternal mindset, it is possible to discover that the opposite has occurred. The well-known author C. S. Lewis alerted us to this danger in observing that, “Prosperity knits a man to the World. He feels that he is ‘finding his place in it’, while really it is finding its place in him.” ₍₁₎

Therefore, we would do well to remember that life is short, eternity is long, and that Christ has gone to prepare an eternal home for His people. The individuals who appear in Hebrews chapter eleven could have turned back from following God in faith. However, they believed that God held a better place for them and were content to live with that future promise during their earthly sojourn.

Thus, as Hebrews 11:6 concludes, “…God is not ashamed to be called their God.” The same is true of those who similarly walk in faith. As one source observes, “They realized that this world was not their final home. They were content to be strangers and pilgrims, refusing the urge to nestle to make themselves comfortable. Their desire was to pass through the world without taking any of its character upon themselves.” ₍₂₎

Nevertheless, this passage also presents us with a question: “How could a person living in the Old Testament era find salvation since he or she never exercised explicit faith in Christ?” We find the answer to that question in Hebrews 11:14-16. In the words of one commentary, “Saints in the OT looked forward to the messianic hope and believed in God’s promises, which pointed to the future Messiah, Jesus.” ₍₃₎

(1) Lewis, C.S., The Screwtape Letters Copyright© MCMXC by Barbour and Company, Inc. [pg. 143]

(2) William Macdonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary Edited by Arthur Farstad, Thomas Nelson Publishers [pg. 2197].

(3) Ted Cabal et al., The Apologetics Study Bible: Real Questions, Straight Answers, Stronger Faith (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2007), 1835.

“These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth” (Hebrews 11:13).

Like any good writer, the author of Hebrews moderated his approach to help capture and engage his readers’ attention. Here in Hebrews 11:13, our author took a brief pause to summarize what we have read so far: “All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised…” (NIV).

So what are the promises referenced here? Well, those promises would include the arrival of God’s Savior, the One who would open the way to true fellowship with Him. Our author then went on to say, “…they only saw (those promises) and welcomed them from a distance” (NIV).

Jesus verified that statement in speaking of Abraham with the religious leaders of His day. Abraham is a prominent figure within this epistle, and Jesus offered the following insight regarding his faith in God…

” [Jesus said] ‘I tell you the truth, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death’.

At this the Jews exclaimed, ‘Now we know that you are demon-possessed! Abraham died and so did the prophets, yet you say that if anyone keeps your word, he will never taste death. Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?’

Jesus replied, ‘If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me. Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and keep his word. Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad.’

‘You are not yet fifty years old,’ the Jews said to him, ‘and you have seen Abraham!’ ‘I tell you the truth,’ Jesus answered, ‘before Abraham was born, I am!’ At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds” (John 8:51-59 (NIV).

Although there is much to learn from this exchange, we can focus our attention on Abraham’s faith in the context of Hebrews 11:13. Even though the fulfillment of God’s promises were far distant, Abraham accepted them in recognition of the God who made them. In addition, Abraham could have returned to his country of origin (as our author will allude to next), but his faith in the God who made those promises helped motivate him to follow God’s path for his life.

“By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised. Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born descendants as many as the stars of heaven and as many as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore” (Hebrews 11:11-12 ESV).

So, here is how Abraham’s wife Sarah responded to God’s announcement from Genesis 18:10: “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son” (ESV)…

“Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, ‘After I have grown old, shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?'” (Genesis 18:12).

Notice this passage tells us that Sarah “…laughed to herself” (NIV). In other words, Sarah laughed silently as she considered God’s promise to her husband. Thus it appears that Sarah believed no one could hear her- or so she thought…

“Then the LORD said to Abraham, ‘Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Will I really have a child, now that I am old?’ Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return to you at the appointed time next year and Sarah will have a son'” (Genesis 18:13-14).

While it is sometimes possible to ascertain the thoughts of others by examining their facial expressions, body language, tone of voice, or other subtle clues, our internal thoughts are generally imperceptible. Because of this, it is often possible to say one thing while thinking something very different. But even though we may be able to shield those internal thoughts from others, we can never conceal them from our Creator. God clearly ascertains such things- and He knew exactly what Sarah was thinking when no one else did.

That led God to issue an important reminder: “Is anything too difficult for the Lord?” (CEB). Unfortunately, Sarah answered this question in a way that people sometimes do when they are unexpectedly confronted; she decided to lie…

“Sarah was afraid, so she lied and said, ‘I did not laugh.’ But he said, ‘Yes, you did laugh'” (Genesis 18:15 NIV).

While it may be possible to fool our friends, our spiritual leaders, our family members, and others, Sarah’s experience reminds us that it is never possible to fool God. Therefore, we would do well to adopt a policy of complete honesty with God, especially since He already knows the truth about our feelings. If we fail to do so, He may call us to account for our lack of sincerity, just as He did with Sarah.

“By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised. Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude–innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore” (Hebrews 11:11-12).

Abraham’s wife Sarah presents us with a character study that offers several potential applications for modern-day readers of this epistle. We can begin our look at Sarah’s experience by first considering God’s promise to make Abraham into a “great nation” as described in Genesis 12:1-2. Genesis chapter fifteen then follows by documenting God’s oath to provide Abraham with a biological son to serve as his heir (Genesis 15:1-4).

Nevertheless, Abraham was still waiting upon God to fulfill those promises by the time we reach Genesis chapter eighteen. That brings us to Sarah’s experience as it relates to our passage from Hebrews 11:11-12…

“The LORD appeared to Abraham near the great trees of Mamre while he was sitting at the entrance to his tent in the heat of the day. Abraham looked up and saw three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he hurried from the entrance of his tent to meet them and bowed low to the ground…

‘Where is your wife Sarah?’ they asked him. ‘There, in the tent,’ he said. Then the LORD said, ‘I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife will have a son.’ Now Sarah was listening at the entrance to the tent, which was behind him. Abraham and Sarah were already old and well advanced in years, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing” (Genesis 18:1-2, 9-11).

Before we continue, it is helpful to consider what God’s promise meant for Abraham and Sarah. First, the opportunity to have a child of their own was something they deeply desired. Then there was the lengthy period they had already spent in waiting for God to fulfill the promise of a child. It’s also easy to imagine the pain they must have felt as they watched other couples have children of their own.

Finally, we should consider the fact that God had earlier changed Abraham’s name from Abram (or “exalted father”) ₍₁₎ to “Abraham,” a name that meant “father of a multitude.” ₍₂₎ It certainly must have been difficult for Abraham to spend those years with a name that meant “father of a multitude” while he and his wife remained childless.

Yet God approached Abraham in Genesis chapter eighteen and essentially said, “I will give you a son around this time next year.” We’ll see Sarah’s response to that promise next.

(1) H87 “abram” Thayer’s Greek Lexicon https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/h87/kjv/wlc/0-1/

(2) H85 “abraham” Thayer’s Greek Lexicon https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/h85/kjv/wlc/0-1/

“By faith [Abraham] went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:9-10).

Some Biblical translations (such as the King James Version, among others) use the word “sojourned” to describe Abraham’s experience in the land of Canaan. This word identifies someone who lives as a temporary resident in a foreign location.

Today, we might use the term “resident alien” or “foreign national” to describe Abraham’s status in Canaan; he lived in the land of Canaan, but he was not a citizen of that land. In light of this, we might say that Abraham was “from” Canaan, but he was not “of” Canaan. In other words, his real citizenship was held elsewhere.

Abraham’s experience as a sojourner in Canaan is rich in applications that are worthy of our consideration. For instance…

• God placed Abraham in Canaan according to His sovereign will (Genesis 12:1-3).
• Abraham accepted and believed God’s promise of a permanent, future home (Genesis 13:14-15, Hebrews 11:10).
• Abraham conducted himself as a God-honoring citizen as he made legal arrangements with governmental leaders and working to resolve local issues during his temporary residence in Canaan (Genesis 21:22-34).
• The resident people groups of Canaan recognized Abraham and held him in high regard (Genesis 23:1-6).
• Abraham was forthright in his economic dealings with the people of that area (Genesis 23:7-20).
• However, Abraham had no illusions regarding the moral deficiencies of his Canaanite neighbors (Genesis 24:1-4).

The first two points highlight Abraham’s vertical relationship with God. The remaining points apply to the horizontal relationships that Abraham developed with others during his residence in that area. Thus, we can say that Abraham’s vertical relationship with God influenced his horizontal relationships as he sojourned in the land of Canaan.

So, God placed Abraham in Canaan and Abraham responded by living a God-honoring (albeit imperfect) life. Much like Abraham’s experience in Canaan, God has also placed His people as sojourners in a place that is not their permanent home (Philippians 3:20). And like Abraham, we also have the promise of a permanent, future home (John 14:1-3).

Therefore, we should follow Abraham’s good example as we live and work as representatives of Christ during our earthly sojourn. We should seek to maintain good relationships among others as much as possible, and seek to honor God in our economic activities and governmental interactions. Finally, we should recognize the secular moral and spiritual climate that pervades every generation, and thus live in a way that accurately and effectively communicates the Good News of salvation in Christ.

“By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8).

Hebrews 11:8 marks the emergence of Abraham, one of the more prominent Biblical figures in the Hebrews 11 “Faith Hall Of Fame.” However, this is not Abraham’s first appearance in the Biblical book of Hebrews. For instance, the author of Hebrews highlighted God’s promises to Abraham earlier in Hebrews chapter six when he wrote the following…

“For when God made a promise to Abraham, because He could swear by no one greater, He swore by Himself, saying, ‘Surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply you'” (Hebrews 6:13-14).

Here in Hebrews 11, the focus will shift from God’s promises to Abraham to Abraham’s faithful decision to act upon those promises. In the words of one commentator, “Abraham’s faith was so great, that he was not particularly concerned as to what the nature of the country was. His faith displaced all worry as to his future in that country. He did not trouble to think upon the matter.” ₍₁₎

The book of Genesis tells us that Abraham (then known as Abram), accepted those promises, took God at His word, and “…departed as the Lord instructed him…” He continued on that lengthy journey until he finally reached the land of Canaan (Genesis 12:4-8). The following verses of Hebrews chapter eleven pick up Abraham’s account from there…

“By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God” (Hebrews 11:9-10).

Although Abram was quite wealthy by the time he arrived in Canaan (Genesis 13:2), he was an aged man in an unfamiliar environment with relatively few friends and many prospective enemies. Those enemies included several potentially hostile neighbors, including the Canaanites and another local people group known as the Perizzites (Genesis 13:7).

So, other than his servants, his possessions, and a nephew named Lot (who would later make an ill-fated decision to leave his uncle and establish a new residence near Sodom), Abraham had little more than a promise from God- a promise that he accepted and believed by faith. Because of this, Genesis 15:6 tells us that “(Abraham) believed the LORD, and he credited it to him as righteousness” (NIV).

(1) Kenneth S. Wuest, Word Studies in the Greek New Testament [Hebrews 11:8] Copyright © 1942-55 by Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.

“By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith” (Hebrews 11:7).

We can illustrate the idea of genuine Biblical faith by turning to the example of a superior athlete. You see, a person of great athletic talent does not need to inform others of his or her athletic ability. Instead, an outstanding athlete confirms the reality of those talents by demonstrating them on the field, on the court, or in the rink. In a similar manner, genuine faith is something that we should demonstrate through our actions.

Noah, the well-known Biblical personality, offers another good example. In Genesis 6:13-14, God gave the following message to Noah: “…’I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. I am surely going to destroy both them and the earth. So make yourself an ark of cypress wood; make rooms in it and coat it with pitch inside and out'” (NIV).

If we continue reading that account, we find that Noah faithfully acted upon God’s instructions. Thus, we can say that Noah’s faith in God moved him to act upon God’s directive, even though his decision may have seemed pointless or foolish to others. Because of this, Noah was ready when God’s Word came to pass, just as He said it would.

However, we would be remiss if we did not mention a less auspicious event from Noah’s life…

“And Noah began to be a farmer, and he planted a vineyard. Then he drank of the wine and was drunk, and became uncovered in his tent” (Genesis 9:20-21).

Today, Noah is rightfully viewed as a great man of God. In addition to his appearance here in the Hebrews 11 “Faith Hall Of Fame,” the Biblical book of 2 Peter also identifies him as a preacher of righteousness (2 Peter 2:5). Nevertheless, the passage quoted above reminds us that faithful, God-honoring people can still fail very badly. In this instance, alcohol abuse led to this unfortunate event in Noah’s life.

Modern-day medical professionals recognize alcohol’s role as a depressant. As such, alcohol serves to depress one’s capacity for self-control, good judgment, and wise decision-making. This (along with Noah’s experience from Genesis chapter nine), serves to confirm the Biblical counsel regarding alcohol abuse from the book of Ephesians: “And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18 HCSB).

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6).

“Acceptance” is something that is often difficult to find. For instance, people often fail to gain acceptance within a social group because they lack the qualities that other individuals possess. But such distinctions are irrelevant when it comes to faith. After all, we need not be talented, athletic, popular, wealthy, or intellectually gifted in order to exercise faith.

In light of this, Hebrews 11:6 reminds us that every circumstance of life offers an opportunity to exercise faith. Consider the following message from Paul the Apostle as recorded in the New Testament book of 1 Timothy…

“I give thanks to Christ Jesus our Lord who has strengthened me, because he considered me faithful, appointing me to the ministry” (1 Timothy 1:12 CSB).

While it may be easy to overlook Paul’s brief expression of thankfulness, this portion of Scripture highlights our passage from Hebrews in an important way. For instance, Paul did not say that Jesus found him to be good-looking, talented, athletic, wealthy, or popular with others. Instead, He considered Paul to be faithful and appointed him to the ministry.

Paul’s example thus provides us with a pattern to follow. For instance, if we are faithfully executing the responsibilities associated with our current station in life, then perhaps God will enable us to move forward into greater areas of responsibility. And even if He chooses not to do so, at least we can be secure in knowing that our faithfulness is pleasing to Him, just as we see here in Hebrews 11:6.

However, if we are not faithful in the things that God has already given us, then why He would entrust us with anything further? Jesus’ teaching from Luke 16:10 is both sobering and instructive in this regard…

“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities” (NLT).

So, if we truly believe that God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him, then we should live our lives in faithful recognition of that belief. Such faith does not simply believe that a divine being or “higher power” exists. Instead, genuine Biblical faith exemplifies confidence in the God who is reflected in the pages of the Biblical record.

“By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, ‘and was not found, because God had taken him’; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God'” (Hebrews 11:5).

Enoch is a man of great mystery. Outside of his appearance here in Hebrews 11, virtually everything we know about Enoch is derived from one Biblical chapter: Genesis chapter five. For instance, Genesis 5:18 tells us that Enoch’s father was 162 years old when he was born. A little later in that chapter, we also read the following…

“When Enoch had lived 65 years, he became the father of Methuselah. And after he became the father of Methuselah, Enoch walked with God 300 years and had other sons and daughters. Altogether, Enoch lived 365 years. Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him away” (Genesis 5:21-24 NIV).

Of all the people who have found their way into the Biblical record, only Enoch and the prophet Elijah departed their earthly lives in this manner. So why would God take this action in Enoch’s life? Well, the Genesis account simply tells us that “…Enoch walked with God.”

We can draw one application from this passage in saying that Enoch steadily moved forward in his relationship with the Lord, just as one does when he or she is walking. In other words, Enoch did not sprint, nor did he lag behind. He did not choose an alternate path for himself, nor did he stop and start- he simply walked with God. This is analogous to something we read in the Old Testament book of Micah…

“…O people, the LORD has already told you what is good, and this is what He requires: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8 NLT).

Hebrews 11:5 also tells us that Enoch was known as someone who pleased God before he was taken away. Therefore, we can say that those who seek to please God must faithfully walk the road God travels. The features of that path include righteousness, mercy, and humility, just as we see in the passage quoted from Micah 6:8 above.

So, Enoch walked with God by faith and received the privilege of departing this life in an extraordinary manner. Thus, we leave this account of Enoch’s life with the encouraging message of 1 Thessalonians 4:1…

“Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more” (NIV).

“It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed His approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith” (Hebrews 11:4 NLT).

We can end our look at the Biblical account of Cain and Abel by noting Cain’s response to the sentence he received for murdering his brother. Genesis 4:13-14 tells us that Cain did not express contrition, remorse, or sorrow for his act of homicide. Instead, he lamented the fact that he was made to suffer the consequences for what he had done.

The Old Testament book of Proverbs characterizes that response by reminding us, “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy” (Proverbs 28:13). Cain also serves as a living example of 2 Corinthians 7:10: “…godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.”

In addition, Cain’s experience reminds us that our choices and decisions give birth to real consequences. For instance, God warned Cain that he was heading for trouble but Cain refused to listen. In a similar manner, we also make real choices that lead to real consequences that carry a real eternal impact. The Biblical book of James touches upon this subject, as does the book of Ephesians…

“Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is” (Ephesians 5:15-17 NIV).

Those choices and decisions contribute to the history of our lives and influence others for better or worse. Cain thus offers an object lesson in this cause-and-effect relationship. If Cain’s attitude toward God had been right, then the offering that ultimately led him on the path to his brother’s murder would have been right as well. This explains why the New Testament book of 1 John tells us…

“Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother’s were righteous” (1 John 3:12 NIV).

This has also led one commentator to observe…

“Moffatt finely comments: ‘Death is never the last word in the life of a righteous man.’ When a man leaves this world, he leaves something in it. He may leave something which will grow and spread like a canker; or he may leave something fine which blossoms and flourishes without end. He leaves an influence of good or ill; every one when he dies still speaks. May God grant to us to leave behind not a germ of evil but a lovely thing in which the lives of those who come afterwards will find blessing.” ₍₁₎

(1) Barclay, William. William Barclay’s Daily Study Bible, “The Faith Of The Acceptable Offering (Heb_11:4)”

“Faith led Abel to offer God a better sacrifice than Cain’s sacrifice. Through his faith Abel received God’s approval, since God accepted his sacrifices. Through his faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead” (Hebrews 11:4 GW).

Perhaps Cain felt that the remote site of his brother’s murder would cover the criminal act he had committed against him (see Genesis 4:8). However, Cain was about to find that nothing can ever be hidden from God…

“Then the Lord said to Cain, ‘Where is Abel your brother?’ He said, ‘I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?'” (Genesis 4:9).

We should note that God did not begin His conversation with Cain by making an accusation. Instead, He asked a simple question: “Where is your brother Abel?” (CSB). However, that question may prompt a question of our own: “If God knows everything, then why did He question Cain about the whereabouts of his brother? Didn’t God already know what Cain had done to Abel?”

In response, we should remember that questions are often designed for different purposes. In this instance, God’s question did not represent a request for information. Instead, this question presented Cain with a choice. He could choose to be honest with God about what he had done, or he could choose to respond in some other manner. Unfortunately, Cain made a poor decision in choosing his response.

Instead of responding to God in a manner that demonstrated respect for his Creator, Cain issued a sarcastic reply: “…’How should I know?’ Cain retorted. ‘Am I supposed to keep track of him wherever he goes?'” (Genesis 4:9 TLB). Once again, we can say that Cain’s disrespectful attitude toward God was reflected in his arrogant response.

“And He said, ‘What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood cries out to Me from the ground. So now you are cursed from the earth, which has opened its mouth to receive your brother’s blood from your hand. When you till the ground, it shall no longer yield its strength to you. A fugitive and a vagabond you shall be on the earth” (Genesis 4:10-12).

So, Cain was condemned to a bitter future- a future of drifting from region to region, looking for a place of his own, but never quite finding that place.

“And Cain said to the Lord, ‘My punishment is greater than I can bear!” (Genesis 4:13).

Cain’s reply offers another insight into his attitude toward God. One translation of Genesis 4:13 tells us that Cain responded to God’s judgment by saying, “This punishment is too hard!” (CEV). In other words, Cain didn’t feel bad about the fact that he did something wrong- he felt bad about the punishment he received for what he had done.

“By faith Abel offered to God a better sacritfice than Cain did. By faith he was approved as a righteous man, because God approved his gifts, and even though he is dead, he still speaks through his faith” (Hebrews 11:4)

Genesis 4:8 tells us how Cain ultimately expressed his anger over the fact that God did not respect his offering…

“Now Cain talked with Abel his brother; and it came to pass, when they were in the field that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him” (Genesis 4:8).

Jesus provided us with some insight into that spiritual mindset when He said…

“…the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man ‘unclean.’ For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man ‘unclean’…” (Mathew 15:18-20).

God warned Cain about the consequences that would follow his choices by saying, “…if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it” earlier in Genesis 4:6-7. Unfortunately, Cain chose to disregard that warning. In one sense, God continues to repeat this admonition to us through the pages of His Word. In addition to what we read here in Hebrews 11:4, the Biblical book of Galatians tells us…

“When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God” (Galatians 5:19-21 NLT).

Cain’s example reminds us that consequences are sure to follow our spiritual choices. While it may be easy to assume that those consequences are limited to the person making those choices, the truth is that they often affect others as well.

For instance, Abel’s death undoubtedly had an effect upon his parents, Adam and Eve. Remember that Cain and Abel were the first two children born to them. Now one of their children was gone. Thus, Adam and Eve knew the pain felt by a parent who outlives a son or daughter.

We should also remember that Cain was Adam and Eve’s first child. Like any good set of parents, they surely had great hopes for him. Unfortunately, Cain left a dreadful legacy, for the first person born in the history of humanity also became the first criminal in human history.

“By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead” (Hebrews 11:4 NIV).

To illustrate the internal issue with Cain’s offering to God, let’s set up a hypothetical example. Let’s say that you bring a gift to someone you love, but he or she rejects your gift. In that scenario, how would you likely feel? Would you feel sorrow? Disappointment? Sadness? Confusion? Regret? Perhaps a combination of those emotions? Well, those are the responses we would normally expect to see in a person whose gift is rejected by a loved one.

Now, let’s take a different scenario. Let’s say that we are interacting with someone we dislike. If that person rejects our gift, how are we likely to respond? Well, in that situation, we are likely to respond with indifference, apathy, or anger. In other words, our internal dislike for someone who rejects our gift will provoke a different response than the person in our first example.

In both instances, our internal attitude towards someone will influence our response. The same was true of Cain as well. When Cain became angry over the fact that God did not look favorably upon his gift, his emotional response demonstrated the truth regarding his internal attitude toward God.

“So the Lord said to Cain, ‘Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it'” (Genesis 4:6-7).

In a similar manner, God’s response to Cain tells us something important about Him as well. For instance, notice that God did not react toward Cain in the same way Cain reacted towards God. The Scriptural record does not say that God became angry at Cain. It does not say that God responded to Cain by saying, “Why can’t you be more like your brother?” Instead, God responded graciously to him.

We can paraphrase that gracious response in the following manner: “If you do what is right, then everything will be OK between us.” However, God also issued a warning: “…if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out! Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master” (Genesis 4:7 NLT).

“Sin” can be defined as, “a path, a life-style, or act deviating from that which God has marked out.” ₍₁₎ So, God warned Cain about the potential danger that was lurking just outside his door, so to speak. Unfortunately, we’re about to find that Cain chose to neglect that warning.

(1) Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words, Copyright © 1985, Thomas Nelson Publishers [pg 364]

“Cain and Abel both offered sacrifices to God. But Abel offered a better sacrifice to God because he had faith. God said he was pleased with what Abel offered. And so God called him a good man because he had faith. Abel died, but through his faith he is still speaking” (Hebrews 11:4 ESV).

In addition to the fat portion that comprised Abel’s offering, we’re also told that Abel’s gift came from among the firstborn of his flock in Genesis 4:3-5. As a result, we can say that Abel offered his best to God. In other words, Abel offered God something that was worthy of Him.

However, Cain’s offering was different. Unlike Abel, Cain did not necessarily give his first and best to God; we’re simply told that he brought some fruits of the soil as an offering. The difference was that Cain brought “some” to God while Abel offered his first and best. Therefore, these gifts tell us something important about each of these men and their respective attitudes towards God.

The author of Hebrews highlighted those differences in the passage quoted above: “It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith” (Hebrews 11:4 NIV).

We should not rush past this statement, for there may be no higher compliment than to say that God looks upon someone with respect or approval. Abel’s external offering provided evidence to support the existence of his internal righteousness. Unfortunately, Cain’s offering (and his subsequent response) said something very different.

When God rejected Cain’s offering, Cain could have said, “God did not respect my offering. I need to reconsider this so I can bring God something that is acceptable to Him.” Unfortunately, Cain did not take that approach. Instead, Cain’s response is chronicled in the second part of Genesis 4:5: “So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast.”

In the original language of Genesis chapter four, the word translated “angry” means, “to be hot, furious, [to] burn.” ₍₁₎ This tells us that Cain was more than simply troubled about this situation; his internal fury was visibly reflected in his face. This tells us a lot about Cain’s internal attitude towards God- and that internal attitude would soon lead to a tragic result.

(1) H2734 charah, Thayer’s Greek Definitions, https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/h2734/kjv/wlc/0-1/

Some may be familiar with the quote from the 19th century author Henry David Thoreau, who poetically observed, “If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer.” ₍₁₎ Hebrews 11:4 begins our introduction to a group of individuals who kept pace with a drumbeat that differed from that of the rest of the world. In doing so, they served as living examples of God-honoring faith…

“By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and through it he being dead still speaks” (Hebrews 11:4)

While the Biblical account of Cain and Abel is fairly well known, there is more to their story than Cain’s famous question, “Am I my brother’s keeper?”

Cain and Abel’s Scriptural record begins in Genesis chapter four. Following Adam and Eve’s dismissal from the Garden of Eden, Eve gave birth to a son named Cain. Later, she gave birth to another son named Abel (Genesis 4:1-2). We’re also told that Cain and Abel went on to pursue two different occupations: “Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground.”

So Abel became a rancher and managed the family’s livestock. Cain became a farmer and helped produce food for his family. But while these men were moving in different occupational directions, they were also moving in different spiritual directions as well…

“And in the process of time it came to pass that Cain brought an offering of the fruit of the ground to the Lord. Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat. And the Lord respected Abel and his offering, but He did not respect Cain and his offering. And Cain was very angry, and his countenance fell” (Genesis 4:3-5).

Now, before we continue, let’s consider this passage more closely. Cain and Abel each brought their offerings to God. Cain brought some of his farm produce and Abel made an offering to God from among his animals. However, God approved of Abel’s gift but did not have respect for Cain’s offering. The question is, why?

We can find one potential answer by paying close attention to the description of each offering. For instance, notice that we’re told, “Cain brought an offering…” but the following verse tells us, “Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat.” This is significant, for the fat portion was considered to be the best part of the animal- that was the portion Abel presented to God.

We’ll consider the effect of those decisions next.

(1) Thoreau, Henry David, Walden, chapter 18, p. 430 (1966). Originally published in 1854.

“By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible” (Hebrews 11:3 ESV).

A common objection to passages such as Hebrews 11:3 is found in the following question: “Isn’t it possible that the universe came into existence through random chance?” This objection finds its origin in the belief that the universe might have come into existence through an arbitrary (or random) process. But this premise runs into trouble if we stop to examine it closely.

In this context, the word “chance” describes the likelihood that something will occur. In other words, “chance” conveys the statistical probability that something will take place. While these definitions have many valid applications, the issue is that “chance” cannot do anything. This creates a problem when we try to apply this theory to the creation of the universe.

To illustrate that problem, let’s say that two people are engaged in a card game. Player number one shuffles the deck of cards and then deals several cards to player number two. Given this scenario, let’s ask some questions: did “random chance” influence the cards that player two received? Did “random chance” manipulate, change, or alter that card sequence? Did “random chance” have the power to ensure that player number two received one card over another?

Well, the answer to those questions is no. “Chance” simply describes the statistical probability that player two will receive one type of card instead of another. This helps to explain why “random chance” cannot be responsible for the existence of the universe. Chance doesn’t make things happen- it only describes the probability that something will happen.

Here’s another way to demonstrate this concept. Let’s say that someone flips a coin into the air. In this instance, the chance that a coin will land on “heads” is 50%. ₍₁₎ However, “chance” doesn’t make a coin land on heads. Instead, that outcome will depend on several different variables.

For instance, the size, shape, and weight of the coin will affect the end result. The number of revolutions that a coin makes before it lands will also influence that outcome. Environmental conditions represent another contributing factor, along with the surface upon which the coin lands. It will also be affected by the decision to catch the coin in midair or let it fall to the ground.

The point is that “chance” does not make a coin land on heads or tails- that result is determined by many different factors. Chance only describes the statistical probability that a coin will land in a particular way. In a similar manner, the belief that “random chance” brought the universe into existence cannot be accurate because chance has no power to “do” anything.

(1) For the purpose of this illustration, we will discount the nominal possibility that a coin will land on its edge after it is flipped.

“By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible” (Hebrews 11:3).

Although Hebrews chapter eleven will largely focus upon the “Heroes of the Faith,” it is significant to note that our author begins this chapter by speaking of something rather than someone. That “something” involves the physical universe: “By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible” (CSB).

There were no scientific means of validating that statement when the Biblical book of Hebrews was originally written. But today we know that everything we see is comprised of an unseen atomic structure, thus affirming the legitimacy of this teaching. Nevertheless, this reference to the “…things that are not visible” (CSB) raises a question that takes several forms.

For instance, what if the universe is just an illusion? What if “reality” is nothing more than a dream? How do we know that everything we experience isn’t just the product of an unseen fantasy, mirage, or simulation?

We can address those objections by first defining an illusion as a false perception of reality. With that in mind, let’s consider the following question: “Is my existence real?” If the answer is no, then we should note that a person must actually exist in order to question his or her existence. Just as a desert mirage cannot offer water to a thirsty traveler, a non-existent being does not possess the ability to question its own existence. Therefore, this objection fails because the question is self-defeating.

We can also address these objections from a skeptic’s perspective. Let’s take the example of someone who doubts that everything is real. In that scenario, what is the one thing that a skeptic cannot doubt? Well, the one thing that a skeptic cannot doubt is the fact that he or she is doubting. In other words, one cannot be skeptical about his or her doubt- that has to be real.

That leads us to the following progression…

• If our doubt is real, then our thoughts must be real because we must have the ability to think before we can doubt.
• If our thoughts are real, than our minds must exist because one cannot think without a mind.
• If our minds exist, then we must really exist because one cannot have a mind that thinks without a brain.
• Therefore, our existence must be real.

In summary, we might respond to those who say, “Everything is an illusion” by asking, “Is that thought an illusion?” If such a thought is real, then everything cannot be an illusion. This approach was first developed by the seventeenth- century philosopher Rene Descartes who formulated the famous precept, “I think, therefore, I am.” Therefore, it cannot be true that “everything is an illusion” because some things are demonstrably real.

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony” (Hebrews 11:1-2).

We can add to our understanding of genuine Biblical faith by examining what it is not. For instance, some think that faith involves belief without evidence. We might associate that view with “blind faith,” a phrase that describes the kind of faith that has no basis in reality. However, we should not mistake genuine Biblical faith for blind faith. Former homicide detective and Christian case-maker J. Warner Wallace addresses that difference in the following manner…

“Blind Faith: Believing in something WITHOUT any evidence. We hold a blind faith when we accept something even though there is no evidence to support our beliefs. We don’t search for ANY evidence that either supports or refutes what we are determined to believe.

Reasonable Faith: Believing in something BECAUSE of the evidence. We hold a reasonable faith when we believe in something because it is the most reasonable conclusion from the evidence that exists

The Bible repeatedly makes evidential claims. It offers eyewitness accounts of historical events that can be verified archeologically, prophetically and even scientifically. We, as Christians are called to hold a reasonable faith that is grounded in this way.” ₍₁₎

Faith is also not a tool that we might use to get something we want. While some may promote “faith” as the pathway to greater financial wealth or material possessions, the New Testament epistle of James explains the problem with that kind of “faith”…

“…You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures” (James 4:2-3 NIV).

Finally, genuine Biblical faith is not faith in the amount of faith we possess. We might refer to this as “faith in our faith.” That ideology serves to prioritize the measure of our faith rather than the God who serves as the object of our faith. Real Biblical faith is not an end to itself; instead, it puts the focus upon the Person in whom we place our faith. As Jesus once said…

“‘…Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you'” (Matthew 17:20 NIV).

(1) J. Warner Wallace, Is the Christian Faith Evidentially Reasonable? Retrieved 5 December 2022 from https://coldcasechristianity.com/writings/is-the-christian-faith-evidentially-reasonable/

Before we begin our look at the heroes of the faith from Hebrews chapter eleven, let’s see what made them special…

“What is faith? It is the confident assurance that something we want is going to happen. It is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead” (Hebrews 11:1 TLB).

“Faith” represents “a belief in or confident attitude toward God, involving commitment to His will for one’s life.” ₍₁₎ Faith involves the confident expectation that God is who He says He is, and will do what He says He’ll do, even in those instances when we don’t understand why things have transpired as they have within our lives.

In the Scripture quoted above, we’re told that “faith is… certain of what we do not see.” This makes good sense, for there is little need for faith in regard to the things we can see. Faith is necessary for those things we can’t see.

This brings us to the word “substance.” This word conveys the image of a foundation or structural component. Just as we ordinarily cannot see the framework that provides for the structural integrity of a home or building, faith is the unseen substance that undergirds our trust in the God who possesses the ability to make “…all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 828).

One Biblical scholar adds to our understanding of this concept by dissecting this word in the original language of this passage…

“The word ‘substance’ deserves careful treatment. It is hupostasis, made up of stasis ‘to stand,’ and hupo ‘under,’ thus ‘that which stands under, a foundation.’ Thus it speaks of the ground on which one builds a hope.” ₍₁₎

Another commentator offers a familiar analogy to help communicate this idea…

“When faith is biblical faith, the object of your faith is unseen, but there is evidence that supports the conviction that the unseen object is there. It is like the aroma of a favorite meal that you have not yet seen, but the aroma is evidence that the meal is about to be served. Therefore, a good definition of faith might be: ‘Faith is an act of belief in something, or Someone, you cannot see, which is based on evidence.'” ₍₂₎

These definitions will assume greater importance in our next study. There, we will examine the difference between “faith” and “blind faith” in the context of Hebrews chapter eleven.

(1) “Faith” Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Copyright © 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers

(2) Kenneth S. Wuest, Word Studies in the Greek New Testament (Hebrews 11:1) Copyright © 1942-55 by Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.

(2) Dick Woodward, Mini Bible College Study Booklet #15 Hebrews, James, I and II Peter, I, II, III John, Jude and The Revelation [pg.6] https://mbc.icm.org/

Who were your heroes as you were growing up? Perhaps it was an athlete, a musician, a celebrity, or a family member you sought to emulate. While the supply of heroes never quite seems to meet the demand for them in our modern-day world, we can find some genuine heroes within the pages of Hebrews chapter eleven. This portion of Scripture has often been referred to as the Bible’s “Faith Hall Of Fame” for its list of heroic individuals who stood for God in the midst of tremendous obstacles.

As we consider the experiences of these men and women, we can learn much about God’s character and His ability to work within our lives. But before we begin our look at this chapter, we must start by acknowledging that the people we will meet here were faithful individuals, not perfect individuals. These include…

• A man who once got drunk and passed out naked (Noah).
• A person who lied about his wife to protect himself (Abraham).
• A woman who laughed at God’s stated intent (Sarah).
• A man who tried to circumvent God’s will (Isaac).
• A deceptive cheater (Jacob).
• A murderer (Moses).
• A fearful individual who felt inadequate to fulfill God’s call upon his life (Gideon).
• A prostitute (Rahab).
• A violent, uncontrollable alpha-male (Samson).
• A man who was an illegitimate child (Jepthah).
• A king who once sent a man to his death so he could marry his wife (David).
• A God-honoring man whose sons were wicked and dishonorable (Samuel).

Nevertheless, these faithful individuals received God’s approval, despite their obvious shortcomings. Therein lies an important lesson for readers of this epistle. While it is often natural to focus upon our personal faults and deficiencies (and those of others), this chapter reminds us that we must weigh such assessments against the premium that God places upon faith.

Hebrews chapter eleven also benefits us in another way. You see, this chapter should relieve us of the notion that God only employs the best and the brightest human beings to accomplish His will. Instead, this portion of Scripture will demonstrate the fact that God doesn’t always select the most talented, popular, smartest, wealthiest, or physically capable individuals to fulfill His purposes. Instead, He may choose to work through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things through them.

This was true of many of those we will meet in Hebrews chapter eleven. The same may also be true of us as we place our faith in Christ to fulfill His purposes for our lives.

“But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul” (Hebrews 10:39).

Hebrews chapter ten ends on a positive note, as the author of this letter expressed his belief that his original readers were not among those who might shrink back from trusting God. In doing so, our author uses a word that rarely appears in modern-day usage: perdition.

“Perdition” conveys the general idea of waste, ruin, or the loss of well-being. ₍₁₎ One source defines this word as “the destruction which consists of eternal misery in hell.” ₍₂₎ Thus we have a fitting incentive to take this counsel seriously. We  also see this idea personified in the life of someone who is described in the Biblical book of 2 Thessalonians…

“Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God” (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4).

This future individual will serve as the ultimate personification of the mindset described for us in the New Testament epistle of 1 John: “Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son” (1 John 2:22). Those who are familiar with the gospel accounts of Jesus’ life may also recognize the word “perdition” from Jesus’ characterization of Judas Iscariot…

“While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name. Those whom You gave Me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled” (John 17:12).

Earlier in Hebrews chapter ten, our author encouraged us to place our trust in God by saying, “Let us hold on firmly to the hope we profess, because we can trust God to keep his promise” (Hebrews 10:23 GNT). But if that encouragement proves to be insufficient, perhaps we might find greater motivation in seeking to avoid being numbered among “those who draw back to perdition.”

Thus, we end our look at Hebrews chapter ten and enter Hebrews chapter eleven with the words of the following commentator…

“With this mention of faith (‘believe’ and ‘faith’ are the same root word in Greek), the groundwork is laid for a fuller discussion of the life that pleases God. The illustrious eleventh chapter follows quite naturally at this point.” ₍₃₎

(1) See G684 apoleia Strong’s Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries and Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words © 1985, Thomas Nelson Publishers, https://biblehub.com/greek/684.htm

(2) G684 apoleia Thayer’s Greek Definitions https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?t=kjv&strongs=g684

(3) William Macdonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary Edited by Arthur Farstad Thomas Nelson Publishers (2 Corinthians 5:10) p.2274

“But My righteous one will live by faith; and if he draws back, I have no pleasure in him” (Hebrews 10:38 HCSB).

The penultimate verse of Hebrews chapter ten contains an inspirational truth that has been adapted and repurposed in many different forms. That dynamic truth involves the honorable characteristic of perseverance in the midst of a difficult situation.

One of the better-known adaptations of this idea appeared in a portion of a speech given by Theodore Roosevelt, the 25th President of the United States…

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better.

The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” ₍₁₎

Politicians, military figures, athletes, and others have similarly adopted the noble character of this ideal for various purposes throughout the course of human history. Nevertheless, a discerning individual might ask, “Why? Why should I exhibit the qualities of perseverance, endurance, or diligence in the midst of a difficult situation when it is often safer or easier to simply give up or give in?”

God Himself provides us with the answer to that question here in Hebrews 10:38: “…I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back” (NIV). While there may be many reasons to persevere when we find ourselves in a challenging situation, we do so primarily because faithful endurance is a characteristic that pleases God. Since is impossible to please God without faith (as we’ll discover in the following chapter of Hebrews), the alternative involves “shrinking back,” an act that brings God no pleasure.

Much like a sailor who confidently turns a seafaring vessel towards an oncoming wave, we can exhibit the kind of faith that is pleasing to God when we place our trust in Him to navigate the challenges and difficulties of life.

(1) Roosevelt, Theodore, “Man In The Arena” from “Citizenship in a Republic” the Sorbonne, Paris, France. 23 April, 1910. See https://www.theodorerooseveltcenter.org/Learn-About-TR/TR-Encyclopedia/Culture-and-Society/Man-in-the-Arena.aspx

“For yet a little while, And He who is coming will come and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him” (Hebrews 10:37-38).

Hebrews 10:38 marks the final New Testament reference to a famous quotation from the Old Testament prophet Habakkuk: “…the just shall live by his faith” (Habakkuk 2:4). The following excerpt introduces us to Habakkuk and the environment that served as the backdrop to this important Biblical concept…

“Habakkuk was a prophet with a troubled spirit. He ministered to the Jewish people during one of their darkest hours, when God was using pagan nations to punish his own people. That greatly upset the prophet.

Chapter 1 of Habakkuk is one of the most graphic, grueling, and certain records of what would soon come to pass upon Israel. He struggled with it, and he went before God, saying ‘God, how can you let these things happen? You are too holy even to behold iniquity, and yet it seems you have turned your back on your people and have let wickedness prevail in our midst. How can these things be?’

Have you ever struggled with that question yourself? Have you ever come before God in the midst of a difficult or horrible situation and said, ‘Lord, how can these things be?’ It was in that context when doubt had pushed the prophet to the brink of despair, that the Word of God proclaimed: ‘The just shall live by faith.’

It is as though, in the midst of the situation, God did not have the time to give a lengthy explanation of the intricacies of what he was doing through his sovereignty in world history, and so he simply said to his prophet: ‘Trust me.’ Trusting God is the opposite of trusting yourself—being ‘puffed up’ as the verse says. There comes a time in every Christian’s life when it seems the only answer from heaven is, ‘Trust me.’ But it is enough.” ₍₁₎

Much like the prophet Habakkuk, we may find it difficult to discern God’s purpose behind the events that occur in our lives. When we are challenged by things we cannot easily explain, we would do well to remember that “the just shall live by faith.” As we’re told in a beloved and well-known portion of the Biblical book of Proverbs…

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV).

(1) Sproul, R. C. (1992). Before the face of God: Book 1: A daily guide for living from the book of Romans (electronic ed.). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House; Ligonier Ministries. Page 69

“So don’t throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you need endurance, so that after you have done God’s will, you may receive what was promised” (Hebrews 10:35-36).

In the realm of popular music, there are many artists who have released one immensely popular song and then faded into obscurity. We commonly refer to those artists as “One-Hit Wonders” in recognition of their success with one popular song. But unlike a musical artist who rockets to stardom on the strength of a best-selling song and subsequently disappears, our passage from Hebrews 10:35-36 references a far more tenacious (and important) quality: endurance.

“Endurance” (or perseverance) is hardly a popular subject in today’s age of instant gratification. In the wry observation of one commentator, “Perseverance is one of the great unromantic virtues.” ₍₁₎ However, this quality is one of the key substantiators of a healthy spiritual life. While endurance in the midst of a trial does not secure our salvation, it often serves as evidence of our faithful commitment to Christ.

One source offers food for thought in this regard: “…the victory of faith is not achieved by one brilliant campaign but a lifetime of patient and faithful service. It is not so much the glory of a promising start that the Lord desires as it is the glory of a faithful finish.” ₍₂₎ Perhaps this is why the Biblical book of Ecclesiastes tells us, “Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof…” (Ecclesiastes 7:8 KJV).

For instance, the act of completing a task often requires important skills like dedication, hard work, discipline, and the ability to plan ahead. It also may require another important quality: perseverance, or the ability to endure through the difficult stages of a project or assignment. Whether that characteristic is expressed in the face of active persecution or the wearisome routines of daily life, we should not seek to escape such things by denying Christ as some members of the original audience for this epistle apparently sought to do.

This passage thus reveals important spiritual truth: patient endurance in seeking to fulfill God’s will in this life serves to prepare us to “…receive all that he has promised” (NLT). Therefore, we can find encouragement in the following passage from the New Testament epistle of James…

“Blessed are those who endure when they are tested. When they pass the test, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12 GW).

Image Attribution: “One Hit Wonders Night” by Princeton Public Library, NJ is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0. Image cropped.

(1) Barclay, William. William Barclay’s Daily Study Bible, “The Danger Of Drift (Heb 10:32-39)”

(2) Coffman, James Burton. “Commentary on Hebrews 10”. “Coffman’s Commentaries on the Bible”. https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bcc/hebrews-10.html. Abilene Christian University Press, Abilene, Texas, USA. 1983-1999.

“Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise” (Hebrews 10:35-36).

When faced with a trial or affliction, it often helps to understand the reason behind that hardship. Since many adversities appear to be devoid of meaning or purpose, we are often challenged to make sense of painful events that seem to make little sense. Although it is impossible to identify the cause of suffering in every instance, we can say that valid reasons for suffering always exist, even if we don’t fully comprehend them.

The author of Hebrews provided one such reason in the passage quoted above: “You need endurance so that after you have done what God wants you to do, you can receive what he has promised” (GW). Some members of the first-century audience for this letter had been tempted to withdraw from their relationship with Christ and return to the Old Testament sacrificial system in response to persecution. Therefore, their steadfast response in the face of such mistreatment would serve to build their spiritual endurance and demonstrate the reality of their faith.

Paul the Apostle offered another potential explanation behind the challenges and difficulties we experience in a letter to the first-century church at Corinth…

“…But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many” (2 Corinthians 1:9b-11 NIV).

In light of this, we can say that these challenges offer an opportunity to demonstrate the kind of faith that pleases God. That faith is not in ourselves or our ability to control (or escape) the circumstances we encounter. Instead, our confidence is in the God who is able to make “…all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

As Jesus reminded us in Matthew 6:33-34, “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (NIV).

“You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions” (Hebrews 10:34 NIV).

The penitentiaries of the New Testament era were not like the prisons that exist in many modern-day societies. A prison of that time did not typically serve as a place of incarceration as we understand it today. Instead, a first-century prison was generally used to confine an accused criminal before he was executed or put on trial.

These penal institutions were usually cold, damp, and dirty. In addition, there were no beds, toilets, showers, or meals offered in such prisons. This meant that prisoners who had no external means of support often faced starvation unless someone provided for their needs. The observations made by the following commentary provide us with some additional insight into these conditions as well as this passage from Hebrews 10:34…

“Prisoners who had no means of their own were liable to starve unless their friends brought them food and whatever other form of help they required; throughout the whole age of imperial persecution of the Church the visiting of their friends who were in prison was a regular, though dangerous, duty of Christian charity.” ₍₁₎

It was hazardous to be recognized as a known associate of a prisoner during that time. Therefore, these Hebrew Christians took a substantial risk in visiting those who had been incarcerated. According to Hebrews 10:34, some (or all) of those individuals paid for that decision with the confiscation of their possessions. As another commentary adds, “In the first-century AD Roman Empire, authorities sometimes seized the property of accused criminals, and people sometimes looted homes after homeowners were imprisoned (according to first-century AD writer Philo, Against Flaccus 10, 56).” ₍₂₎

In response to this expression of faith, our author encouraged these Hebrew Christians to maintain that attitude in light of their current situation. This offers a valuable lesson for today. Much like some members of this first-century audience, we may not require additional instruction in the things of God. Instead, we may simply need to be reminded to act on what we already know.

Thus, we can say that these individuals took Jesus’ teaching from the Sermon On The Mount seriously…

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21).

(1) The New International Commentary On The New Testament – The Epistle To The Hebrews, F. F. Bruce, General Editor © Copyright 1964, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. Grand Rapids, Michigan [pg. 270]

(2) Barry, J. D., Mangum, D., Brown, D. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Ritzema, E., … Bomar, D. (2012, 2016). Faithlife Study Bible (Heb 10:34). Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.

“At times you were publicly exposed to abuse and afflictions, and at other times you came to share with others who were treated in that way. For in fact you shared the sufferings of those in prison, and you accepted the confiscation of your belongings with joy, because you knew that you certainly had a better and lasting possession” (Hebrews 10:33-34 ESV).

The author of Hebrews built the foundation for this passage in the previous verse when he spoke of the “…great conflict of sufferings” (AMP) his readers previously endured. Much like a prizefighter who absorbs the punishment inflicted by a powerful opponent, these Hebrew Christians suffered for their decision to follow Christ.

At a minimum, it’s likely that many of these Christians had been ostracized for their commitment to Christ. In the tightly knit Jewish communities of that era, that decision could have also resulted in economic hardship. So, in addition to the persecution mentioned in the passage quoted above, these members of the Jewish Christian community undoubtedly faced family banishment and social marginalization.

This brings to mind some other well-known Biblical personalities who endured periods of great suffering as they fulfilled God’s will for their lives. For instance…

• Job: Job suffered financial devastation along with the loss of his children, his personal possessions, and his physical health for no discernable reason.
• John the Baptist: John was beheaded for telling a political leader that it was wrong for him to engage in a sexual relationship with his sister-in-law (see Mark 6:17-29).
• The Apostle Peter: Peter is said to have been crucified upside down during the persecution of Christians under the Roman emperor Nero.
• Stephen the Martyr: This man was stoned to death for preaching about Christ (Acts 7:55-58).
• Paul the Apostle: Paul was shipwrecked, whipped, and thrown into prison on multiple occasions. Church tradition tells us that Paul was beheaded around A.D. 68.

We will meet many more faithful individuals in the following chapter of Hebrews. Nevertheless, we should be aware of the spiritual danger facing those who are not subject to these kinds of persecution. One source identifies those dangers for us…

“Having endured under persecution, they must not now let down in the hum-drum of every day activities. The normal routine of life, uninterrupted by persecution, is often the real test of genuineness of one’s Christian experience, for the very absence of trials and difficulties tends to promote spiritual drifting (2: 1), moral sluggishness and lethargy (5: 11), the slow imperceptible hardening of attitude (3: 13).” ₍₁₎

(1) New International Bible Commentary general editor G. C. D. Howley, consulting editors F. F. Bruce, H. L. Ellison. Copyright© 1979 by Pickering & Inglis Ltd [pg. 1526]

“But recall the former days in which, after you were illuminated, you endured a great struggle with sufferings: partly while you were made a spectacle both by reproaches and tribulations, and partly while you became companions of those who were so treated; for you had compassion on me in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods, knowing that you have a better and an enduring possession for yourselves in heaven” (Hebrews 10:32-34).

Many of us have enjoyed the experience of reliving the memory of a great victory, a successful endeavor, or an extraordinary life event. We often remember where were were, who accompanied us, and our emotional response to those occasions with great fondness.

However, there are other life events that may not evoke the same kind of positive response. When faced with such memories, we can find a practical (and beneficial) application in the message of Hebrews 10:32-34. You see, this passage tells us that we can recall the negative experiences of our past and learn from them in a way that benefits us today. For instance, we might prayerfully ask the following questions when faced with the memory of a negative incident…

• What did my response to that event tell me about myself? Did I respond appropriately or inappropriately?
• If I had to go back and relive that experience, what would I have done differently?
• Did I replicate the negative behavior pattern of a youthful authority figure during that incident?
• Will I press on and learn from that experience or allow it to negatively impact my future?

Even if some our past experiences have nothing positive to teach, we can always learn what not to do in the future. In a sense, these “debriefing questions” are similar to what the author of Hebrews presented to the members of his audience in the passage quoted above. While our challenges may not involve similar adversities, they offer a corresponding opportunity to grow in Christ.

For example, God may allow difficulties to enter our lives to strengthen us (2 Corinthians 12:10) or increase our trust in Him (Psalm 50:14-15). He might use such experiences to help us develop patience (Romans 5:3-5) and endurance (as we’ll see in the following verses of Hebrews chapter ten). Finally, God may allow trials to enter our lives to help others who will experience similar things (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

Thus, as we are reminded in the New Testament epistle of James…

“Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything” (James 1:2-4 NLT).

“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” (Hebrews 10:31).

Our modern-day use of the word “fear” usually invokes a sense of apprehension, or the state of being afraid. However, the word “fear” may also convey the qualities of reverence, honor, and respect. Consider how Jesus made use of this word in the Gospel of Luke…

“And I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!” (Luke 12:4-5).

When we read about our responsibility to “fear God” in this context, it means that we should honor and respect Him above all else. Perhaps this is why Proverbs 9:10 tells us, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” A person who acknowledges the God of the Biblical Scriptures with an attitude of honor and respect is someone who begins with the right foundation for good decision-making. Furthermore, there can be no greater wisdom than that which is offered by “…Jesus [who] has become our wisdom sent from God” (1 Corinthians 1:30 GW).

Yet even though the word “fear” communicates an attitude of honor and respect in this context, it is important to avoid the mistake of thinking that we have nothing to be afraid of in relation to God. If we consider the experiences of those who encountered God within the pages of the Scriptures, we often find responses that are best characterized by a sense of dread, terror, or distress (see Isaiah 6:1-5, Matthew 17:4-6, and Exodus 3:1-6 for some examples).

While God is loving, slow to become angry, kind, gracious, and compassionate. He is also to be respected and honored. He is not to be treated lightly, for “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” The late Biblical scholar Norman Geisler clarifies these ideas for us…

“The Hebrews passage speaks of those who, far from being repentant, had sinned ‘willfully’ after having ‘received the knowledge of the truth’ (v. 26).In brief, whether it is fearful or not will depend on the condition of the person who falls into God’s hands.

(1) Geisler, N. L., & Howe, T. A. (1992). When critics ask : a popular handbook on Bible difficulties (p. 159). Wheaton, Ill.: Victor Books.

“For we know Him who said, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord. And again, ‘The Lord will judge His people'” (Hebrews 10:30).

Earlier in Hebrews 10:26, the author of Hebrews wrote, “…if we deliberately persist in sin after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice for sins” (Mounce). To support that premise, our author sets an example that we would do well to follow: he appealed to the Biblical Scriptures to validate his message.

The first supporting passage is taken from Deuteronomy 32:35: “Vengeance belongs to Me; I will repay…” (HCSB). The second quote is adapted from the following verse in Deuteronomy 32:36 as well as Psalm 135:14.

For some, this reference to “vengeance” conveys the image of a vigilante who takes the law into his or her own hands to right an alleged wrong. However, these verses do not express a sense of vindictive retribution. Instead, they communicate God’s intent to lawfully administer justice in response to an injustice that has taken place.

The second portion of Hebrews 10:30 serves to remind us that God’s people are subject to judgment as well. In fact, this reference communicates the idea of someone who is “…summoned to trial that one’s case may be examined and judgment passed upon it.” ₍₁₎ In view of this, it is important to remember that those who receive God’s Word are responsible for acting upon what they have received.

The New Testament book of Galatians expresses this idea in a positive and negative sense…

“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:7-10).

Thus, we are reminded of an important passage from the Biblical book of 1 Peter quoted earlier…

“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen” (1 Peter 4:10-11 NIV).

(1) G2919 krino, Thayer’s Greek Lexicon https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g2919/kjv/tr/0-1/

“How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?” (Hebrews 10:29).

This passage draws our attention to the emotionally charged language that our author uses to identify those who defiantly reject the Son of God. For example, the word-picture behind the phrase “trampled underfoot” involves the act of rejecting with disdain. ₍₁₎ It also evokes a sense of insulting neglect in respect to Jesus’ sacrificial death. ₍₂₎

However, one does not need to be not openly disdainful of Christ to fall within this category. Much as an undiscerning person might unknowingly cause substantial damage without realizing it, an irreligious person who cares little for the things of God may just as easily be someone who carelessly “…walks all over God’s Son” (CEB).

For instance, we can find one such example in the attitude of someone who uses Jesus’ name as an exclamation or an expletive. Then there are those who refer to Jesus in a trivial, frivolous, or dismissive manner. At a minimum, these expressions flow from an attitude of indifference or disrespect for Christ. At worst, they reveal a sense of contempt for Him whether or not the speaker realizes it.

Another example involves someone who has “…counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing” (NKJV). One Biblical scholar shares an important nuance behind this passage: “The word ‘counted’ in the Greek text refers to a conscious judgment resting on deliberate weighing of the facts. Here it implies a deliberate, contemptuous rejection of the Messianic sacrifice of the Son of God.” ₍₃₎

In light of these things, we can say that such individuals profane “the blood of the covenant” in assuming that Jesus’ death is no more important than the passing of anyone else. Thus, those who engage in such practices have “…insulted and disdained the Holy Spirit who brings God’s mercy to us” (NLT). In other words, they demonstrate a lack of respect and reverence for the God who secured our salvation at the cost of His Son’s life.

Although we may not intentionally seek to insult the Holy Spirit in such a manner, we effectively do so when we reject Christ, for “Salvation is to be found through him alone; in all the world there is no one else whom God has given who can save us” (Acts 4:12 GNT).

(1) G2662 katapateo, Strong’s Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g2662/kjv/tr/0-1/

(2) Ibid, Thayer’s Greek Lexicon

(3) Kenneth S. Wuest, Word Studies in the Greek New Testament (Hebrews 10:29) Copyright © 1942-55 by Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.

“Anyone who has rejected Moses’ law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace?” (Hebrews 10:28-29).

Hebrews 10:28-29 alludes to those legislative portions of the Old Testament Law that mandated a death sentence in the case of certain transgressions. Those violations included…

• Idolatry (Deuteronomy 13:1-18, 17:2-5).
• Physical violence against a parent (Exodus 21:15).
• Laboring on the Sabbath (Exodus 35:2).
• Unlawful killing (Leviticus 24:17).
• Arrogance, disrespect, or contempt for lawful authority (Deuteronomy 17:11-13).

However, the Law also protected those who might fall victim to a malicious or unfounded attempt to enforce those penalties…

“One witness is not enough to convict someone of a crime; at least two witnesses are necessary to prove that someone is guilty. If any of you try to harm another by false accusations, both of you are to go to the one place of worship and be judged by the priests and judges who are then in office.

The judges will investigate the case thoroughly; and if you have made a false accusation, you are to receive the punishment the accused would have received. In this way your nation will get rid of this evil” (Deuteronomy 19:15-19 GNT).

The author of Hebrews used these edicts to make an important spiritual point…

“Under the Old Covenant, if an Israelite spurned the Mosaic Law and at least two or three witnesses verified his actions, he was put to death. This being true, the author then argued from the lesser to the greater. If defiance of an inferior covenant could bring such retribution, what about defiance of the New Covenant which, as he had made clear, is far superior? The answer can only be that the punishment would be substantially greater in such a case.” ₍₁₎

Remember that our author has already established that “… the Law has only a shadow [just a pale representation] of the good things to come—not the very image of those things…” (AMP) in Hebrews 10:1. If the Old Covenant Law prescribed the death penalty in these instances, how much worse will the retribution be for those who transgress against the One who annulled “…the first covenant in order to put the second into effect” (Hebrews 10:9 NLT)?

(1) John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck, Bible Knowledge Commentary. David C Cook, 1983 [p. 805]